Florida Issues Call for Anglers to Target Exotics

01 Apr, 2016

Mayan Cichlid, CIchlasoma uropthalmus, taken on lure in Florida waters. The species is now abundant in South Florida and is known for its meaty, white, mild-flavored meat. Known to some locals as the “Atomic Sunfish.” FWC image: John Cimbaro.

“Catch nonnative freshwater fish, get the chance to win prizes during month of April”

“Florida is home to at least 34 species of reproducing exotic fish and new species continue to be found, which can impact native fish communities,” says FWC biologist Kelly Gestring. “By removing and reporting nonnative fish, anglers help manage populations of exotic species and help conserve our state’s precious natural resources.”

The State Fish and Wildlife Commission today issued an invitation to fishermen to help reduce the burgeoning populations of non-native fishes in Florida waters.

From the FWC Release, April 1, 2016:

“Want the opportunity to win prizes while helping to document and remove nonnative freshwater fish from Florida’s waters? Consider participating in the second statewide Nonnative Fish Catch, Click and Report Contest, coordinated by the Florida Fish And Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and partners.

The 2016 contest kicks off at 6 a.m. on April 1 and runs until midnight on April 30.

“Participating is easy — anglers simply take a photo, enter detailed catch location or GPS coordinates, and report nonnative freshwater fish catches to IveGot1.org during the contest sample period. Catches can also be reported by downloading the IveGot1 app, by calling 888-IVE-GOT1 (888-483-4681), or by posting photos and catch data to your Instagram account.

The contest is part of a continuing effort to raise awareness of nonnative fish species and encourage anglers to target nonnative fish for consumption by the FWC and partners, including the U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service, Florida Invasive Species Partnership, University of Georgia and Everglades Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area. Partners plan to hold the event annually with the help of anglers acting as citizen scientists.